Thermal damage during ablation of biological tissues

Abstract

This study presents the numerical solution of a bioheat transfer problem related to the ablation of biological tissues continuously heated by a laser. Different mechanisms of thermal decomposition, such as coagulation, vaporization, and removal of the necrotic tissues, were taken into account in the analysis. The finite volume method was used to obtain the numerical solution of the temperature field, while the volume of fluid method was used to track the ablation interface. Results obtained for cases of practical interest provide a good indication of the area affected by the thermal treatment and are in good agreement with experimental data available in the literature.

Acknowledgments

The support provided by CNPq, CAPES, and FAPERJ, agencies of the Brazilian and Rio de Janeiro state governments, is gratefully appreciated.